On the set of Star Trek Into Darkness, Simon Pegg, who portrays Scotty, was known for his quick wit and a knack for lifting the mood during long shoots. The film, guided by director J. J. Abrams, carried a high-energy pace, and Pegg’s playful humor became part of the daily rhythm. Cast members and crew alike faced grueling schedules, yet Pegg used humor as a bridge to ease tension, spark camaraderie, and keep performances fresh. The behind-the-scenes atmosphere blended professional discipline with spontaneous jokes, creating a vibe where hard work and lighthearted moments coexisted and fed into the movie’s grand ambition.”
One of the standout pranks from the production centered on a fictitious Neutron Cream that supposedly offered protection during the laser sequence. Pegg allegedly persuaded several teammates that applying this cream would enhance safety, and while a portion of the crew was in on the joke, the rest of the cast learned the truth through their surprised, filmed reactions. The prank was designed to unfold in front of the camera, turning a routine precaution into a moment of levity. Although the crew collaborated to stage the gag, the real delight lay in the on-camera responses that captured the genuine disbelief, bursts of laughter, and the effortless chemistry that defined the making of a blockbuster.”
Zoe Saldana, Karl Urban, and John Cho were among those who fell for the Neutron Cream stunt, reacting with a mix of skepticism and amusement as they smeared the mysterious substance on themselves. Benedict Cumberbatch, who joined the cast in a high-profile role and would become central to the film’s tension, was the day’s most surprising target; he even signed a document declaring the cream a joke without taking the time to read it first. The moment underscored the warmth and trust on set, showing how the actors could be playful with one another even as the filmmaking moved toward its dramatic apex. The scene also highlighted Pegg’s ability to blend humor with the demanding atmosphere of a big-budget sci-fi shoot.”
A behind-the-scenes video capturing the Neutron Cream prank became a beloved keepsake for fans, offering an intimate look at the personalities shaping Star Trek Into Darkness. The footage reveals Pegg’s planning process, the cast’s candid reactions, and the spontaneous chaos that often fuels a major production. Viewers witness the playful banter between Pegg and teammates, the moment of realization when the prank lands, and the mix of relief and laughter that follows a successful reveal. The clip serves as a reminder that humor and human connection are essential ingredients alongside special effects and stunts in creating a memorable film experience.”
Seen as part of the film’s production lore, the Pegg prank stands as a testament to morale on set. It illustrates how humor can reinforce teamwork, strengthen friendships, and help performers stay connected to their roles under the pressures of a high-profile project. For fans, the behind-the-scenes glimpse enriches the Star Trek experience by offering context for the camaraderie that accompanies blockbuster filmmaking. The video remains a popular share among fans and a cheerful anecdote from a pivotal chapter in the Star Trek franchise, reminding viewers that the people behind the scenes often share the same love for storytelling as the audience who watches the final product. (Citation: Behind the scenes video from Star Trek Into Darkness production materials.)